Antonio Conte’s Inter shares several traits with Jose Mourinho’s treble-winning team, according to an Italian media report today.
The Nerazzurri have collected 50 points in their first 22 league games this season, an identical tally to the one they had during the historic 2009-10 season.
Corriere dello Sport’s print edition argued the similarities went much deeper than just numbers, though, comparing the two Inter teams for their unity and spirit off the pitch.
Just like Mourinho compacted the team during the most delicate moment of their season, Conte also seems to be working to protect everyone from external threats, from the club’s corporate problems to external pressures.
Conte and the club’s clarity in explaining Suning’s inability to continue investing in the team is said to have taken pressure off, lowering the bar instead of raising it further.
He has also acknowledged his players were physically and mentally tired due to the lack of a proper break in between seasons, leading him to grant several days off and allow them to sleep at home the night before matches, something players have appreciated.
Beppe Marotta has also played a crucial role in keeping everyone at the club united during a tempestuous period, the Rome-based publication claimed.
While Inter’s chief executive was unable to persuade the squad to agree to wage cuts, they did agree to have parts of their salaries deferred until the club can pay them more serenely.
The Nerazzurri’s elimination from the UEFA Champions League could have caused unrest in the dressing room, CdS suggested, with less opportunity for fringe players to enjoy game time.
However, everyone has accepted their role and sacrificed their own interests for the good of the team, ensuring the intensity during Conte’s training sessions is as high as ever.